A question about author's credit

I have a question I was hoping someone here could help me with. First I will give a little background information so that you understand my question.

I am currently writing a novel. I meet every week, sometimes twice a week, with a couple of friends of mine that are teachers. We go over the latest chapter, and they critique the chapter. Out of those sessions come some really good ideas, some get incorporated into the book, others do not. But I think it is fair to say some of underlying themes of the book have come from these sessions, and they certainly help me improve each chapter. I do all the actually writing, but they have come up with some really great ideas.

If at the end of this journey the books gets published, who gets the author credit? I know I do all the writing, but they too have contributed. I'm really interested in knowing the proper way of going about author's credit.

Thank you for your time.

Personally, on the dedication page I would say something like:

Thanks to xxxx and yyyy for their help and contribution in making this novel a reality.

Just a thought, you wrote it...you're the AUTHOR!

I agree with DJ. That is the way I would do it. That was my first thought before I even read his reply.

I agree, just an acknowledgement of their help is enough. Like Don said, you wrote it, and YOU are the author. You often see the like on the first page of a novel after the title page.

I agree--acknowledge their contribution nicely, and then you are set. A bunch of flowers or a gift card for endless cups of coffee goes a long way too.

I'd read some acknowledgments found in books. It amazes me how many people are thanked. I have gotten ideas, information, and many other great help from others, some from authors right here on this messageboard.

Carol

Credit is very important to writers

since we never have any cash.

Wow, lin, so that is what you look like!? This is the first I have seen a pic of you. I have been absent here. *grin*

Handsome fellow!

Sue,
you have a good eye.

I find it difficult to respond to posts where there is no picture. To me it is like talking to a wall. I seldom get involved with threads where I don't know with whom I'm dealing.

Hi, Abe,

Well, I prefer to see a photo of the person. However, on facebook as I am adding authors as friends I really like to see the bookcover because you usually can't see their info until you have invited them. Unfortunately I can't have it both ways. Shame they don't let us put up 2 photos side-by-side.